SENIOR PROGRAM OFFICER , Foundations for Innovation - Ottawa, Canada

The goal of the Foundations for Innovation (FI) program is to build the human and organizational capital needed to drive innovation and sustainable growth in low- and middle-income countries, through programs that encourage science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills as well as institutional strengthening. The current portfolio of projects includes capacity building of young mathematical scientists in sub-Saharan Africa (the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences) as well as a program to build the capacity of Science Granting Councils in Africa to manage research for development. New areas for exploration include building the capacity of individuals in engineering as well as engineering faculties in Africa and the development of entrepreneurship skills among Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) scientists, particularly women.

As the Senior Program Officer, you will take the lead on developing and managing individual and organizational capacity building programs in STEM fields in low and middle-income countries, These investments will include both developing a skilled workforce necessary to address private sector needs and Including emphasizing entrepreneurship capacity building. You will also support research projects on creating effective scientists and innovators, and on the policies and financing mechanisms to support technology-driven innovation. You will be responsible for promoting engagement and partnership with public and private sector actors and international leaders in this field, and help develop innovative collaboration between IDRC and the public and private sectors in developing countries and in Canada.

Overview of Qualifications

• Master’s degree OR PhD with a record of publication in one or more fields of economics, public policy, management, business, public finance, science, technology and innovation policy, engineering, STEM education, international development.
• A minimum of five years’ relevant experience which includes: Leading, managing, and implementing individual and organizational capacity building projects in STEM fields in developing regions; Developing, managing and leading research programs in STEM fields in low and middle income countries; Writing proposals for consideration by public and private funding agencies; Building and implementing partnerships between academia, the private sector, and governments; Consulting with decision-makers and policy actors to identify research and training needs and facilitating research uptake; Significant knowledge related to a specific STEM field
• Ability to innovate, develop and manage new areas of programming and partnerships
• Bilingual position (English/French) at an intermediate level 

Application Deadline: October 27, 2015.

A key part of Canada’s foreign policy efforts, the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) supports research in developing countries to promote growth and development. The result is innovative, lasting solutions that aim to improve lives and livelihoods. Join our team of professionals to put your ideas and knowledge to work to help solve some of the developing world’s most critical challenges. 

For more information about this opportunity and how to apply, visit our website atwww.idrc.ca/careers. 

IDRC encourages applications from qualified women, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities.